ObjectivesThe MA in International Development and Planning brings together insights from planning and development studies to engage with rapid spatial transformations occurring across the Global South. These transformations - the globalisation of production and consumption, rapid urbanisation, the spread of new technologies of government - impact upon the lives and livelihoods of the majority of the world's population. They also throw out new challenges for those aiming to shape their effects: while the need for skilled practitioners is as pressing as ever, the values and practices underpinning 'planning' and 'development' are increasingly subjects of public debate. This MA aims to meet these challenges, equipping you with the critical skills necessary to make significant contributions to the management of rapidly-changing human settlements and systems. The MA is directed at those wishing to acquire the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in planning and development in the global South. Its emphasis on exploring the relevance of cutting-edge theoretical debates for planning and development practice will make it of interest to both recent graduates and those with existing professional experience. Students from, or with work experience in, the Global South are particularly encouraged to apply. The course is based in one of the UK's leading planning schools: all our teaching is directly informed by our faculty members' own research expertise, and the Department has a strong commitment to social justice and collegiality in all elements of its work. We are looking for students who will respond positively to the intellectual challenges this degree programme will present, and who will use the experience to inform their professional practice on graduation.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements The normal entry requirement is a good honours degree or equivalent qualification in an appropriate subject from an approved institution. International students must also have a suitable English language qualification such as IELTS 7, with minimum 6 in each component, or TOEFL score of at least 600, with at least 5 in TWE, or 250 in the computer-based test. Applicants resident in the UK will normally be invited to an Open Day. This will allow you to find out more about the course in particular and Sheffield in general and meet staff and students. We will then be in a position to offer you a place on the course. The Department is committed to a policy of equal opportunity in the application process and wishes to ensure a diversity of students on its courses. It therefore particularly welcomes applications from people from non-standard academic backgrounds, from people with relevant employment experience, from minority ethnic students, from women, from mature students and from students with disabilities.
Academic titleMA International Development and Planning
Course descriptionCourse content
Autumn Term: International Development and Planning
-Theoretical Perspectives
-Spatial Planning and Development in the South
-Values in Planning
-Research Methods
Spring semester:
-International Planning Project
Two specialist option modules chosen from:
-Understanding Cultural Difference
-Cities of Diversity
-Cities of the South: Planning for Informality
-Public Participation
-Planning Practice and Moral Theory
-Managing Conflict in Protected Areas
-Evaluating Sustainable Transport Policy
-Community Economic Development
Summer semester
Dissertation:
The dissertation allows you to explore a research topic in detail with the individual guidance of your personal supervisor. It will help you develop specialist knowledge and skills as well as personal, generic and research skills.